Uncertainty Persists Over Ramadan 2026 Start Date in France

The start date of Ramadan 2026 in France remains uncertain as key Muslim authorities weigh between traditional lunar observation and astronomical calculations. The French Council of the Muslim Faith (CFCM) has tentatively announced February 19, 2026, as the beginning of Ramadan based on scientific data predicting the lunar conjunction on February 17. However, the Grand Mosque of Paris will confirm the date following its "Nuit du doute" (Night of Doubt) ceremony scheduled for the evening of February 17, when a religious commission will attempt to sight the new moon in line with Islamic tradition.

This commission’s meeting corresponds to 29 Chaâbane 1447 on the Islamic calendar and involves both moon observation and consideration of astronomical calculations to uphold Muslim unity through a solemn announcement. The CFCM's calculations suggest the lunar crescent will only be visible on February 18, thus proposing a February 19 start, while the mosque’s traditional method may lead to an earlier date, February 18. The debate underscores a broader tension within France’s Muslim community, where some favor the reliability of astronomical methods, and others cherish the spiritual significance of the moon sighting ritual.

The Islamic calendar's reliance on lunar phases causes Ramadan dates to move approximately ten days earlier each year relative to the Gregorian calendar. Aïd-el-Fitr, marking Ramadan’s end, is already scheduled for March 20, 2026. This ongoing divergence reflects the complexity and richness of religious practice among France’s nearly five million practicing Muslims.